I actually lived at the Waiohai for 3+ months while I was working on Kauai. The Waiohai is right on the beach at Poipu Beach. Koloa is a very cute little town adjacent to Poipu but not on the beach. It's a casual, fun little town where you can grab a bite to eat in a little restaurant, shop for art or souveniers, grab an ice cream cone, etc. It also has a nice grocery store. Koloa is adjacent to the Tree Tunnel which leads out of the Poipu area. The beach at Poipu is very good and popular with tourists. I spent many hours on that beach, swimming, body surfing and did some snorkeling there, also. If you snorkel, there's a good snorkeling spot (but not a good beach) next to the Beach House (great sunset spot) in Lawai, adjacent to Poipu. There is a little strip center across the street from the Waiohai with restaurants and shopping (don't miss Keoki's). Brennecke's is another not-to-miss restaurant within walking distance. The Waiohai is a good location. It's on the south side of the island. My favorite part of the island is the north side - Hanalei and that area. (Tahiti Nui's is a fun, funky spot for a meal or luau.) There's a great snorkeling spot on the north side - Tunnels. You'll have a great time;l enjoy.